By BECKY KISER Hays Post

"Come hungry, " advises Jenny Bates, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County executive director.

The third annual "Taste of Hays" is a fundraiser for the Ellis County chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters. It's scheduled as a come-and-go-event from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 21, in the Fort Hays State University Memorial Union Ballroom.

It previously was sponsored by the Mary Elizabeth Maternity Home in Hays. Following its closure, Mary Elizabeth board members suggested the popular event be brought back by BBBS.

&nbsp;So far, 18 local restaurants and food vendors have signed up to provide tasting menus of their most impressive and best-liked dishes. The list includes several new restaurants that have opened within the last few months.

VENDORS ATTENDING INCLUDE: Cathy's Breads Chubbs' Que Fusion by Manuel Gella's Diner &amp; LB Brewing Grater Whey Hickok's Steakhouse JD's Country Style Chicken La Curva Las Hefas Latin Cuisine Ol' 40 Express Convenience Store Professor's Rose Garden Banquet Hall Six Guys Roasting Co. The Hilton Garden Grille &amp; Bar The Local Food Truck The Union Catering Company Thirsty's Brew Pub &amp; Grill Verdant Bistro&nbsp;&nbsp;

"All the restaurants are donating their food and time," Bates said, "so 100 percent of your ticket purchase will come back to Big Brothers Big Sisters. It's really amazing."

Culinary choices range from Latin and Mexican to&nbsp;charcuterie, American standards, boutique breads, and coffee specialties.&nbsp;

When all the menu items are determined, they'll be posted on the local BBBS website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.4kidsake.org/tasteofhays/Donate/Tickets">www.4kidsake.org</a>.&nbsp;

Tickets, $50 each, are also available for purchase <a href="https://www.4kidsake.org/tasteofhays/Donate/Tickets">online</a>&nbsp;or in person at the BBBS office, 1200 Main, Suite 102, Hays.&nbsp;Tables of six may be reserved for $500. Those patrons will receive&nbsp;table recognition, additional raffle prize tickets, a special dessert, and will be served by people who are Big/Little matches.&nbsp;

All ticket holders will be entered into random raffle drawings with items donated by local businesses.

Eagle Radio on-air personality Mike Holliday will be the emcee.

&nbsp;There are currently more than 40 Ellis County kids waiting for their Bigs. That's the largest waiting list the organization has had, Bates said. But, it also has 157 current matches, and that's the largest number ever for pairings between local children and caring adults or family volunteers.

Bates feels families are struggling in a lot of different ways right now and kids are struggling in school.

"Isolation is a big reason we've seen," Bates said. "Kids just aren't feeling connected with peers, with other adults. That's why this is so important, that it gets them connected with someone in our community who can then help them connect in other ways, too."&nbsp;

All of the money raised will go to Big Brothers Big Sisters to help cover the cost of screenings, references and background checks.

"We absorb the cost of that and the time our staff has in making those matches," Bates said. "The program is completely free to all our families that come to us with the Littles and getting them in it. There's also no charge to the volunteers."&nbsp;

Once a match is made, BBBS continues supporting that match throughout its entirety, "working with that Big and Little, and the family of [the Little], making sure it's the best fit and best impact for that child.

"We're finding out what their needs are and getting them connected with resources and setting goals," she said.

The average match length in Ellis County is 30 months. Right now, there are matches that were made just this month while the longest match is 18 years.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704906503514.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post"Come hungry, " advises Jenny Bates, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County executive director.The third annual "Taste of Hays" is a fundraiser for the Ellis County chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters. It's scheduled as a come-and-go-event from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 21, in the Fort Hays State University Memorial Union Ballroom.It previously was sponsored by the Mary Elizabeth Maternity Home in Hays. Following its closure, Mary Elizabeth board members suggested the popular event be brought back by BBBS.&nbsp;So far, 18 local restaurants and food vendors have signed up to provide tasting menus of their most impressive and best-liked dishes. The list includes several new restaurants that have opened within the last few months.VENDORS ATTENDING INCLUDE: Cathy's Breads Chubbs' Que Fusion by Manuel Gella's Diner &amp; LB Brewing Grater Whey Hickok's Steakhouse JD's Country Style Chicken La Curva Las Hefas Latin Cuisine Ol' 40 Express Convenience Store Professor's Rose Garden Banquet Hall Six Guys Roasting Co. The Hilton Garden Grille &amp; Bar The Local Food Truck The Union Catering Company Thirsty's Brew Pub &amp; Grill Verdant Bistro&nbsp;&nbsp;"All the restaurants are donating their food and time," Bates said, "so 100 percent of your ticket purchase will come back to Big Brothers Big Sisters. It's really amazing."Culinary choices range from Latin and Mexican to&nbsp;charcuterie, American standards, boutique breads, and coffee specialties.&nbsp;When all the menu items are determined, they'll be posted on the local BBBS website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.4kidsake.org/tasteofhays/Donate/Tickets">www.4kidsake.org</a>.&nbsp;Only 300 tickets will be sold.Tickets, $50 each, are also available for purchase <a href="https://www.4kidsake.org/tasteofhays/Donate/Tickets">online</a>&nbsp;or in person at the BBBS office, 1200 Main, Suite 102, Hays.&nbsp;Tables of six may be reserved for $500. Those patrons will receive&nbsp;table recognition, additional raffle prize tickets, a special dessert, and will be served by people who are Big/Little matches.&nbsp;All ticket holders will be entered into random raffle drawings with items donated by local businesses.Eagle Radio on-air personality Mike Holliday will be the emcee.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704924601174.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;There are currently more than 40 Ellis County kids waiting for their Bigs. That's the largest waiting list the organization has had, Bates said. But, it also has 157 current matches, and that's the largest number ever for pairings between local children and caring adults or family volunteers.The need has grown.&nbsp;Bates feels families are struggling in a lot of different ways right now and kids are struggling in school."Isolation is a big reason we've seen," Bates said. "Kids just aren't feeling connected with peers, with other adults. That's why this is so important, that it gets them connected with someone in our community who can then help them connect in other ways, too."&nbsp;All of the money raised will go to Big Brothers Big Sisters to help cover the cost of screenings, references and background checks."We absorb the cost of that and the time our staff has in making those matches," Bates said. "The program is completely free to all our families that come to us with the Littles and getting them in it. There's also no charge to the volunteers."&nbsp;Once a match is made, BBBS continues supporting that match throughout its entirety, "working with that Big and Little, and the family of [the Little], making sure it's the best fit and best impact for that child."We're finding out what their needs are and getting them connected with resources and setting goals," she said.The average match length in Ellis County is 30 months. Right now, there are matches that were made just this month while the longest match is 18 years.&nbsp;

Taste of Hays tickets available for Big Brothers Big Sisters fundraiser    

Each semester North Central Kansas Technical College (NCK Tech) awards a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree! 212 degrees is the boiling point of water. Everyone has watched it happen as water goes from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling point is a transformation point. Recipients of this award are employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of duty and are transformational leaders at the college. These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the mission of NCK Tech.

The recipient of 2024 Spring 212 Award is Shane Britt. Shane is the Dean of Student Experience for the Beloit campus.

"I greatly appreciate all that Dean Britt does to help our students have a positive experience while at NCK Tech," said President, Eric Burks. "Shane is dedicated to serving students and is an amazing team player who is always willing to lend a helping hand wherever needed. I am happy for him to be recognized by his peers for this award."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705090035653.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TechEach semester North Central Kansas Technical College (NCK Tech) awards a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree! 212 degrees is the boiling point of water. Everyone has watched it happen as water goes from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling point is a transformation point. Recipients of this award are employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of duty and are transformational leaders at the college. These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the mission of NCK Tech.The recipient of 2024 Spring 212 Award is Shane Britt. Shane is the Dean of Student Experience for the Beloit campus."I greatly appreciate all that Dean Britt does to help our students have a positive experience while at NCK Tech," said President, Eric Burks. "Shane is dedicated to serving students and is an amazing team player who is always willing to lend a helping hand wherever needed. I am happy for him to be recognized by his peers for this award."

NCK Technical College names Spring 2024 212° Award Recipient

Braelyn Born, Austin Carroll, Jennifer Cunningham, Macy Eberle, Kaydawn Haag, Emily James, 

Dalton North, Kylee Pfeifer, Ava Reed, Logan Russell, Taylor Seibel, Jadyn Starns

Kaiden Colby, Landon Dinkel, Sydney Malleck, Layton Martinson, Tridon Mitts, Callie Priest, 

Sydney Redetzke, Melody Swagerty, Emily Whyte, Isabella Wiesner, Mason Younger

Morgan Armbrister, Kaycee Cranwell, Isabella Eck, Toby Honas, Kamden Keller, Addison Kohl, 

MaKenzie Kohlrus, Alyssa Rome, Taegan Shannon, Brooke Starns, Maleah Vine

Aron Bencze, Tyler Bongartz, Grace Brull, Lucas Dinkel, Lily Elstun, Keaton Fisher, Chance 

Jimenez, Allen Johnson, Chloe McClung, Caleb Noble, Natalee North, JT Rhoden

Gracie Ball, Elie Brull, Payten Burd, Ethan Carroll, Ashlyn Kroeger, Gus Peine, Owen Richards, 

Carson Schartz, Sienna Schmidt, Kinzie Sunley

Tracyn Bollig, Avery Boydston, Ben Byers, Brody Fischer, Jaren Frickey, Gracelynn Hamel, 

Raegan Jimenez, Kinley Jones, Kia Mader, Leah Reed, Mason Rohleder

Aiden Aschenbrenner, Madison Birdsong, Wyatt Dixson, Jocelyn Eck, Jersee Fabrizius, Maggie 

Fitzgerald, Taylor Kohl, Evelyn Merriman, Colton Metzler

Braidyn Cox, Cody Cullison, Jacob Luea, Svea Whitmer

Rylan Aschenbrenner, Dora Bencze, Haylee Comer, Emma Downing, Asher Haag, Hannah James, 

Shiloh Gaschler, Jaxin Howland, Arien LaDuke, Coltan Mader, Lyla Richards, Journey Swagerty

Skylynn Begler, Cayson Boydston, Henry Brull, Addalyn Haas

Nora Andrews, Taryn Boydston, Maggie Downing, Emma Flax, Sophia Gaschler, Kooper Hankins, 

Hunter Honas, Beckett Longbine, Colt McCoy, Chevelle Morton, Jack Reed, Maddison Rummel, 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579030633433.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS HIGH SCHOOL2023-2024Semester 1 Honor RollSENIORAll A Honor RollBraelyn Born, Austin Carroll, Jennifer Cunningham, Macy Eberle, Kaydawn Haag, Emily James, Dalton North, Kylee Pfeifer, Ava Reed, Logan Russell, Taylor Seibel, Jadyn StarnsA-B Honor RollKaiden Colby, Landon Dinkel, Sydney Malleck, Layton Martinson, Tridon Mitts, Callie Priest, Sydney Redetzke, Melody Swagerty, Emily Whyte, Isabella Wiesner, Mason YoungerJUNIORAll A Honor RollMorgan Armbrister, Kaycee Cranwell, Isabella Eck, Toby Honas, Kamden Keller, Addison Kohl, MaKenzie Kohlrus, Alyssa Rome, Taegan Shannon, Brooke Starns, Maleah VineA-B Honor RollAron Bencze, Tyler Bongartz, Grace Brull, Lucas Dinkel, Lily Elstun, Keaton Fisher, Chance Jimenez, Allen Johnson, Chloe McClung, Caleb Noble, Natalee North, JT RhodenSOPHOMOREAll A Honor RollGracie Ball, Elie Brull, Payten Burd, Ethan Carroll, Ashlyn Kroeger, Gus Peine, Owen Richards, Carson Schartz, Sienna Schmidt, Kinzie SunleyA-B Honor RollTracyn Bollig, Avery Boydston, Ben Byers, Brody Fischer, Jaren Frickey, Gracelynn Hamel, Raegan Jimenez, Kinley Jones, Kia Mader, Leah Reed, Mason RohlederFRESHMANAll A Honor RollAiden Aschenbrenner, Madison Birdsong, Wyatt Dixson, Jocelyn Eck, Jersee Fabrizius, Maggie Fitzgerald, Taylor Kohl, Evelyn Merriman, Colton MetzlerA-B Honor RollBraidyn Cox, Cody Cullison, Jacob Luea, Svea WhitmerELLIS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL2023-2024Semester 1 Honor Roll8th GradeAll A Honor RollRylan Aschenbrenner, Dora Bencze, Haylee Comer, Emma Downing, Asher Haag, Hannah James, Talon Pyle, Mackinley RhodenA-B Honor RollShiloh Gaschler, Jaxin Howland, Arien LaDuke, Coltan Mader, Lyla Richards, Journey Swagerty7th GradeAll A Honor RollSkylynn Begler, Cayson Boydston, Henry Brull, Addalyn HaasA-B Honor RollNora Andrews, Taryn Boydston, Maggie Downing, Emma Flax, Sophia Gaschler, Kooper Hankins, Hunter Honas, Beckett Longbine, Colt McCoy, Chevelle Morton, Jack Reed, Maddison Rummel, Carter Starns

Ellis Junior/Senior High releases fall 2023 honor rolls

Area students earn Fall 2023 K-State honors 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705093182329.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

It seems these days I do a lot of reminiscing about hunting and trapping adventures I’ve had over the years. Today, as I sat watching our two small pups napping on the couch, and contemplated a recent request I’d had to trap some problem beavers, stories of dogs I have known and beavers I have caught came flooding back. One story from years ago happened during trapping season and involved an old dog my sister had that was quite entertaining, but not the sharpest knife in the drawer.

Call it a problem, or call it an inconvenience, but a challenge for all of us hunters, fishermen and trappers who don’t live in the country or who don’t own land, is finding a place to unload carcasses and those “parts and pieces” remaining after cleaning fish and game. A friend recently told me that this summer someone had cleaned a mess of frogs and deposited the remains on the back corner of their property without permission; not good, and NO it wasn’t me! Anyway, that reminded me of this “incident” some years back, involving the above-mentioned dog.

My sister had an old dog named Jake, a stray as I remember it. Jake was old and a little crippled and was kind of the color of light brown gravy. Jake often seemed dumber than a bag of hammers, but he knew no strangers. He was big and stocky and when his tail got to waggin’ his whole back-end wagged. His back half would fling from side-to-side so violently I often expected something from back there to come loose and fly across the yard! He always greeted visitors with something in his mouth, wanting to play fetch; trouble was, that “something” was always a 2x4 or a tree limb about 4 feet long, and once his body got to waggin’ with his chosen tree limb or 2x4 in his mouth, he could easily take you out with a whack across the legs. Ole’ Jake’s obsession took him far and wide over the farm to find just the right object to carry around in his position as head greeter there.

Every livestock farm, like it or not has occasional casualties from sickness or cold weather. And every livestock farm has a “bone pile,” a spot somewhere in the “back 40” where carcasses can be dumped in a ravine or a briar patch as a way to discreetly dispose of them while Mother Nature and the coyotes compost them. The first year I trapped beavers here in Kansas, I learned to take advantage of the bone pile on my sister’s farm, which was several hundred yards from the buildings, as a convenient way to dispose of beaver carcasses after I had removed their pelts. I had traps nearby, so every time I caught a beaver, I’d just carry the carcass with me the following morning and deposit it on the pile when I was in the neighborhood; very convenient for me.

One particularly cold morning I got a call from my sister; she sounded a little miffed, but I could tell she was on the verge of laughter even as we spoke. It seems she looked out into the yard this cold frozen morning to find Jake playing with his usual large prize, but something looked odd about that day’s trophy, so curiosity sent her into the yard to see just what he had found this time. As she approached, Jake’s back end began to wag feverishly, thinking someone was coming to play fetch with him and his prize, and he spun around joyfully and greeted her with a frozen beaver carcass from the bone pile clenched proudly in his big yap!

Yup, dogs are the epitome of unconditional love and acceptance. One minute they can seem dumber than a box of rocks, the next minute they curl up beside you in your old recliner and become your most

loyal friend, despite the names you have just called them for performing certain hygiene functions in the middle of the dining room. Everyone of working age in our society today could also learn from a dog’s exuberance to work and / or to please its master. Mutts, you gotta; love em’! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It seems these days I do a lot of reminiscing about hunting and trapping adventures I’ve had over the years. Today, as I sat watching our two small pups napping on the couch, and contemplated a recent request I’d had to trap some problem beavers, stories of dogs I have known and beavers I have caught came flooding back. One story from years ago happened during trapping season and involved an old dog my sister had that was quite entertaining, but not the sharpest knife in the drawer.Call it a problem, or call it an inconvenience, but a challenge for all of us hunters, fishermen and trappers who don’t live in the country or who don’t own land, is finding a place to unload carcasses and those “parts and pieces” remaining after cleaning fish and game. A friend recently told me that this summer someone had cleaned a mess of frogs and deposited the remains on the back corner of their property without permission; not good, and NO it wasn’t me! Anyway, that reminded me of this “incident” some years back, involving the above-mentioned dog.My sister had an old dog named Jake, a stray as I remember it. Jake was old and a little crippled and was kind of the color of light brown gravy. Jake often seemed dumber than a bag of hammers, but he knew no strangers. He was big and stocky and when his tail got to waggin’ his whole back-end wagged. His back half would fling from side-to-side so violently I often expected something from back there to come loose and fly across the yard! He always greeted visitors with something in his mouth, wanting to play fetch; trouble was, that “something” was always a 2x4 or a tree limb about 4 feet long, and once his body got to waggin’ with his chosen tree limb or 2x4 in his mouth, he could easily take you out with a whack across the legs. Ole’ Jake’s obsession took him far and wide over the farm to find just the right object to carry around in his position as head greeter there.Every livestock farm, like it or not has occasional casualties from sickness or cold weather. And every livestock farm has a “bone pile,” a spot somewhere in the “back 40” where carcasses can be dumped in a ravine or a briar patch as a way to discreetly dispose of them while Mother Nature and the coyotes compost them. The first year I trapped beavers here in Kansas, I learned to take advantage of the bone pile on my sister’s farm, which was several hundred yards from the buildings, as a convenient way to dispose of beaver carcasses after I had removed their pelts. I had traps nearby, so every time I caught a beaver, I’d just carry the carcass with me the following morning and deposit it on the pile when I was in the neighborhood; very convenient for me.One particularly cold morning I got a call from my sister; she sounded a little miffed, but I could tell she was on the verge of laughter even as we spoke. It seems she looked out into the yard this cold frozen morning to find Jake playing with his usual large prize, but something looked odd about that day’s trophy, so curiosity sent her into the yard to see just what he had found this time. As she approached, Jake’s back end began to wag feverishly, thinking someone was coming to play fetch with him and his prize, and he spun around joyfully and greeted her with a frozen beaver carcass from the bone pile clenched proudly in his big yap!Yup, dogs are the epitome of unconditional love and acceptance. One minute they can seem dumber than a box of rocks, the next minute they curl up beside you in your old recliner and become your mostloyal friend, despite the names you have just called them for performing certain hygiene functions in the middle of the dining room. Everyone of working age in our society today could also learn from a dog’s exuberance to work and / or to please its master. Mutts, you gotta; love em’! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Jake and the Bone Pile

Reprinted from Sternberg Museum's member newsletter, “The Pteranodon.”

By BILL GASPER Special to the Hays Post

“Dome Sweet Dome” is how one magazine dubbed Fort Hays State University’s plan to relocate Sternberg Museum from the campus to its present location next to Interstate 70. Others referred to it as “Dome on the Range.”

But no matter what it is/was called, the present location of Sternberg Museum has stood the test of time, and in March of 2024, it will celebrate its 25th anniversary.

Of course, numerous activities and celebrations are being planned and will be announced at a later date.&nbsp;

Although it officially opened on March 13, 1999, the journey to the new Sternberg Museum began in 1990 when FHSU purchased the building from the Chrysler Corporation for $1. Originally built as a sports club in 1983-84, it went bankrupt three years later. With the exception of small amounts of space occupied in subsequent years, the dome remained empty, costing Chrysler Credit Corporation, the financing firm thousands of dollars a year in taxes and maintenance.

Then FHSU President Edward Hammond and other university authorities worked with Chrysler to purchase the building, which at the time was valued at $4.5 million.&nbsp; Hammond commented that the new museum would “serve as a bonafide complement” to other Kansas tourist attractions. In fact, Hammond estimated that museum officials expected more than 250,000 visitors in its first year and as many as 350,000 annually by its third year of operation. At the time, the Sternberg Museum on campus drew around 20,000 annual visitors.

When FHSU assumed ownership of the building, it was in bad shape. According to the book “Dinosaurs To Dung Beetles: Expeditions Through Time,” author Gregory Liggett reported that the roof leaked, the pool had not been drained, pipes were broken, mold and mildew permeated the structure, and vandals had broken in and left considerable damage. The entire building was gutted, and university crews worked to stabilize the building.

Planning began immediately on the new building, and the process of raising funds began. At the time, it was estimated that the renovation costs would run around $6.5 million. The price tag swelled to $9.7 million due to escalating construction costs, the cost of education programs, and the installation of a sprinkler system that had to be custom-built to protect displays of computer-controlled dinosaurs. The funding shortfall delayed the project, but in early 1998, Hammond announced that the needed funding had been obtained and the opening date was set for March of 1999.

The project received funds from many sources in the private sector. Ross and Marianna Beach of Hays gave $1 million in 1993, followed by Darrell and Marilynn Seibel with a $700,000 donation of cash and land located near the new facility. Other benefactors included the family of Rick and Gail Kuehl, Don and Cecilia Bickle, the Fleharty Family Partnership, and numerous other large and small donations from the people of Hays and surrounding area.

The last six months of 1997 saw the greatest influx of funds for the project. The State Finance Council of the State of Kansas answered FHSU’s request for funds for the project with a matching grant of $250,000. The Hansen Foundation in Logan matched the grant and a snowball effect followed. Hansen later provided another $150,000 donation. Other financial support came from John and Susan Sykes of Tampa, Fla.; A.B. Engel of Ellis; Paul Miller of Hays; Jim and Pat Bartel of Hays; the Dreiling Charitable Trust Fund of Hays; and a $250,000 commitment from Bob and Pat Schmidt of Hays.

Sternberg has a long history at FHSU. Formally organized in 1926, the museum was named in 1969 for a family of famed fossil hunters, including George Sternberg, who served as museum curator for many years, and who in 1952, collected the now world-famous “fish with a fish” from an area fossil bed.

Sternberg’s collection not only includes remains of giant fishes and reptiles that lived in the Kansas seas, but also the elephants, camels, bison and other creatures that roamed the land after the seas receded.

When the museum was at McCartney Hall, the holdings not only reflected the area’s natural history, but also the human history of Fort Hays, the railroad and immigrant settlers. Archeological and ethnological artifacts from Indian and other cultures were also found at the museum.

When the new museum was completed, the decision was made to make it a natural history museum. The human history collections were donated to area museums such as the Ellis County Historical Society.

“It’s important for people to know that those collections were not disposed of but are in fact at other museums,” said Brad Penka, manager of visitor services. “For example, the gun collection, which many people are familiar with, is still owned by Sternberg but is now located at the Ellis County Historical Society as are other local artifacts. The coin collection went to the bank museum in Rush County, while all the art went to the art department. Those collections are still out there and being cared for. They are just at a different place.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704743687302.png" alt="Sternberg Building Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sternberg Building Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Reprinted from Sternberg Museum's member newsletter, “The Pteranodon.”By BILL GASPER Special to the Hays Post“Dome Sweet Dome” is how one magazine dubbed Fort Hays State University’s plan to relocate Sternberg Museum from the campus to its present location next to Interstate 70. Others referred to it as “Dome on the Range.”But no matter what it is/was called, the present location of Sternberg Museum has stood the test of time, and in March of 2024, it will celebrate its 25th anniversary.Of course, numerous activities and celebrations are being planned and will be announced at a later date.&nbsp;Although it officially opened on March 13, 1999, the journey to the new Sternberg Museum began in 1990 when FHSU purchased the building from the Chrysler Corporation for $1. Originally built as a sports club in 1983-84, it went bankrupt three years later. With the exception of small amounts of space occupied in subsequent years, the dome remained empty, costing Chrysler Credit Corporation, the financing firm thousands of dollars a year in taxes and maintenance.Then FHSU President Edward Hammond and other university authorities worked with Chrysler to purchase the building, which at the time was valued at $4.5 million.&nbsp; Hammond commented that the new museum would “serve as a bonafide complement” to other Kansas tourist attractions. In fact, Hammond estimated that museum officials expected more than 250,000 visitors in its first year and as many as 350,000 annually by its third year of operation. At the time, the Sternberg Museum on campus drew around 20,000 annual visitors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704743807004.jpeg" alt="Former bowling alley in the building that would become the Sternberg Museum. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Former bowling alley in the building that would become the Sternberg Museum. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>When FHSU assumed ownership of the building, it was in bad shape. According to the book “Dinosaurs To Dung Beetles: Expeditions Through Time,” author Gregory Liggett reported that the roof leaked, the pool had not been drained, pipes were broken, mold and mildew permeated the structure, and vandals had broken in and left considerable damage. The entire building was gutted, and university crews worked to stabilize the building.Planning began immediately on the new building, and the process of raising funds began. At the time, it was estimated that the renovation costs would run around $6.5 million. The price tag swelled to $9.7 million due to escalating construction costs, the cost of education programs, and the installation of a sprinkler system that had to be custom-built to protect displays of computer-controlled dinosaurs. The funding shortfall delayed the project, but in early 1998, Hammond announced that the needed funding had been obtained and the opening date was set for March of 1999.The project received funds from many sources in the private sector. Ross and Marianna Beach of Hays gave $1 million in 1993, followed by Darrell and Marilynn Seibel with a $700,000 donation of cash and land located near the new facility. Other benefactors included the family of Rick and Gail Kuehl, Don and Cecilia Bickle, the Fleharty Family Partnership, and numerous other large and small donations from the people of Hays and surrounding area.The last six months of 1997 saw the greatest influx of funds for the project. The State Finance Council of the State of Kansas answered FHSU’s request for funds for the project with a matching grant of $250,000. The Hansen Foundation in Logan matched the grant and a snowball effect followed. Hansen later provided another $150,000 donation. Other financial support came from John and Susan Sykes of Tampa, Fla.; A.B. Engel of Ellis; Paul Miller of Hays; Jim and Pat Bartel of Hays; the Dreiling Charitable Trust Fund of Hays; and a $250,000 commitment from Bob and Pat Schmidt of Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704743851103.jpeg" alt="The Sternberg when it was under renovation in the 1990s. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Sternberg when it was under renovation in the 1990s. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Sternberg has a long history at FHSU. Formally organized in 1926, the museum was named in 1969 for a family of famed fossil hunters, including George Sternberg, who served as museum curator for many years, and who in 1952, collected the now world-famous “fish with a fish” from an area fossil bed.Sternberg’s collection not only includes remains of giant fishes and reptiles that lived in the Kansas seas, but also the elephants, camels, bison and other creatures that roamed the land after the seas receded.When the museum was at McCartney Hall, the holdings not only reflected the area’s natural history, but also the human history of Fort Hays, the railroad and immigrant settlers. Archeological and ethnological artifacts from Indian and other cultures were also found at the museum.When the new museum was completed, the decision was made to make it a natural history museum. The human history collections were donated to area museums such as the Ellis County Historical Society.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704743922658.jpeg" alt="A dinosaur being created for a Sternberg Museum exhibit. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A dinosaur being created for a Sternberg Museum exhibit. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s important for people to know that those collections were not disposed of but are in fact at other museums,” said Brad Penka, manager of visitor services. “For example, the gun collection, which many people are familiar with, is still owned by Sternberg but is now located at the Ellis County Historical Society as are other local artifacts. The coin collection went to the bank museum in Rush County, while all the art went to the art department. Those collections are still out there and being cared for. They are just at a different place.”

Dome Sweet Dome: Present location of Sternberg Museum to celebrate 25 years in March

When Sternberg Museum celebrates its 25th anniversary this spring, one of the activities will be to remove the head of the large T-Rex in the museum’s diorama.

Beheading the 45-foot-long dinosaur will reveal an unusual time capsule that was created when the museum was opened.

Personal mementos, which included family photographs, recipes, financial certificates of deposit, and boxes and envelopes stuffed with personal belongings, were among the many items that were sealed in the gullet of the T-Rex.

At the time, Gregg Liggett, administrative director of the museum, said the idea behind the time capsule was to get the public involved in the museum’s new facility. For as little as $10, people were allowed to add to the items of the time capsule.

The museum provided envelopes or cardboard boxes for the time capsule at the following rates: $10 for a 6 x 9 envelope; $30 for a 9 x 12 envelope; $50 for a 3 x 5 x 12 box; and $100 for a 2.5 x 10 x 12 box.

Liggett said the T-rex time capsule wasn’t designed to raise a lot of money but rather to serve as a reminder that they had items at the museum each time they visited.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704746050066.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Reprinted from Sternberg Museum's member newsletter, “The Pteranodon.”By BILL GASPER Special to the Hays PostWhen Sternberg Museum celebrates its 25th anniversary this spring, one of the activities will be to remove the head of the large T-Rex in the museum’s diorama.Beheading the 45-foot-long dinosaur will reveal an unusual time capsule that was created when the museum was opened.Personal mementos, which included family photographs, recipes, financial certificates of deposit, and boxes and envelopes stuffed with personal belongings, were among the many items that were sealed in the gullet of the T-Rex.At the time, Gregg Liggett, administrative director of the museum, said the idea behind the time capsule was to get the public involved in the museum’s new facility. For as little as $10, people were allowed to add to the items of the time capsule.The museum provided envelopes or cardboard boxes for the time capsule at the following rates: $10 for a 6 x 9 envelope; $30 for a 9 x 12 envelope; $50 for a 3 x 5 x 12 box; and $100 for a 2.5 x 10 x 12 box.Liggett said the T-rex time capsule wasn’t designed to raise a lot of money but rather to serve as a reminder that they had items at the museum each time they visited.

Sternberg time capsule to be unveiled

MCPHERSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Saturday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Honda Pilot driven by Nathan E. Paine, 35, McPherson, was northbound on Interstate 35 approximately two miles south of Cherokee Road.

The SUV passed a 2024 Kenworth semi driven by Scott A.&nbsp;Engel, 50, Hays, and began braking.&nbsp; The vehicle entered right lane and the semi struck the Honda.

After impact the Honda entered the median and came to a rest in the southbound lane of travel.

EMS transported Paine to the hospital in McPherson.&nbsp; Engel was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

MCPHERSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Saturday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Honda Pilot driven by Nathan E. Paine, 35, McPherson, was northbound on Interstate 35 approximately two miles south of Cherokee Road.The SUV passed a 2024 Kenworth semi driven by Scott A.&nbsp;Engel, 50, Hays, and began braking.&nbsp; The vehicle entered right lane and the semi struck the Honda.After impact the Honda entered the median and came to a rest in the southbound lane of travel.EMS transported Paine to the hospital in McPherson.&nbsp; Engel was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Man from Hays avoids injury after 2-vehicle crash

Given that Kansas’s state budget currently points towards a nearly $3 billion surplus, it’s inevitable that legislators have ideas about passing some of that surplus on to Kansans in the form of tax cuts. Of those ideas, some are much better than others.

On the first day of the 2024 legislative session, Governor Laura Kelly presented her own proposal, supported by a few key Republican legislators. It would increase state property tax exemptions and state income tax deductions, as well as provide tax credits for child care. It aims to eliminate the food tax outright, and establish a sales tax holiday for school supplies in August.

It’s a good plan, one the legislature should take seriously—more seriously, at least, than the Republican leadership’s plan to once again push for a flat tax, with all incomes, from the highest to the lowest, taxed at the exact same rate. Flat taxes do have some bureaucratic advantages—they make tax filing much simpler, and tax revenues more predictable—but they are also almost invariably regressive, with the tax burden comparatively falling harder on the poor than the rich.

Despite that unfairness, they’re favored by many, particularly businesses. Nationwide, the popularity of flat tax structures fluctuate: this year Georgia is instituting one, while Massachusetts is abandoning theirs. But either way, Kelly has insisted that the flat tax idea is a non-starter for Kansas, and the unless the Republican leadership can regain the support of their dissenters, the votes to override Kelly’s veto simply won’t be there.

So does that exhaust all possible tax reform options? It does not—because Kelly’s proposal doesn’t include what is probably the best idea out on the legislative table.

Remember that the point of taxes is to fund government programs which we, as citizens, see as benefiting our communities and thus worth paying for—police, fire, health care, sewer, parks, and more. A large portion of those costs are most directly borne by counties and cities, many of which are facing serious budget difficulties, leaving them with the option of either cutting needed programs or increasing local property and sales taxes (or both).

Thus one of the most responsible ways Kansas can help its citizens is by returning to a practice that worked very well for a slow-growth state like ours for more than 70 years: return a portion of state sales taxes to local governments through the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund.

The LAVTR doesn’t attract much attention; it’s a government policy that functions behind the scenes, helping municipalities make their budgets and encourage economic innovation by keeping local programs funded and costs low. Because it doesn’t put money directly into the pockets of individual citizens, it’s not an obvious political pitch. But those Kansas legislators with a sense of history and who see the need to keep local governments healthy as the national economy changes, haven’t forgotten about it. Governor Kelly shouldn’t either.

Putting the LAVTR, which went dormant during the early 2000s, back into the tax discussion won’t be easy; some leading legislators, being protective of their state power over what Kansans might locally prefer to see their tax money spent on, see it as little more than a slush fund. But if Governor Kelly and others really want to use this moment to think about tax changes that will both save money as well as help make public programs across the state more fiscally sustainable, reviving the LAVTR would be a great first step.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt="Russell Fox" />
 <figcaption>Russell Fox</figcaption>
 </figure>Given that Kansas’s state budget currently points towards a nearly $3 billion surplus, it’s inevitable that legislators have ideas about passing some of that surplus on to Kansans in the form of tax cuts. Of those ideas, some are much better than others.On the first day of the 2024 legislative session, Governor Laura Kelly presented her own proposal, supported by a few key Republican legislators. It would increase state property tax exemptions and state income tax deductions, as well as provide tax credits for child care. It aims to eliminate the food tax outright, and establish a sales tax holiday for school supplies in August.It’s a good plan, one the legislature should take seriously—more seriously, at least, than the Republican leadership’s plan to once again push for a flat tax, with all incomes, from the highest to the lowest, taxed at the exact same rate. Flat taxes do have some bureaucratic advantages—they make tax filing much simpler, and tax revenues more predictable—but they are also almost invariably regressive, with the tax burden comparatively falling harder on the poor than the rich.Despite that unfairness, they’re favored by many, particularly businesses. Nationwide, the popularity of flat tax structures fluctuate: this year Georgia is instituting one, while Massachusetts is abandoning theirs. But either way, Kelly has insisted that the flat tax idea is a non-starter for Kansas, and the unless the Republican leadership can regain the support of their dissenters, the votes to override Kelly’s veto simply won’t be there.So does that exhaust all possible tax reform options? It does not—because Kelly’s proposal doesn’t include what is probably the best idea out on the legislative table.Remember that the point of taxes is to fund government programs which we, as citizens, see as benefiting our communities and thus worth paying for—police, fire, health care, sewer, parks, and more. A large portion of those costs are most directly borne by counties and cities, many of which are facing serious budget difficulties, leaving them with the option of either cutting needed programs or increasing local property and sales taxes (or both).Thus one of the most responsible ways Kansas can help its citizens is by returning to a practice that worked very well for a slow-growth state like ours for more than 70 years: return a portion of state sales taxes to local governments through the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund.The LAVTR doesn’t attract much attention; it’s a government policy that functions behind the scenes, helping municipalities make their budgets and encourage economic innovation by keeping local programs funded and costs low. Because it doesn’t put money directly into the pockets of individual citizens, it’s not an obvious political pitch. But those Kansas legislators with a sense of history and who see the need to keep local governments healthy as the national economy changes, haven’t forgotten about it. Governor Kelly shouldn’t either.Putting the LAVTR, which went dormant during the early 2000s, back into the tax discussion won’t be easy; some leading legislators, being protective of their state power over what Kansans might locally prefer to see their tax money spent on, see it as little more than a slush fund. But if Governor Kelly and others really want to use this moment to think about tax changes that will both save money as well as help make public programs across the state more fiscally sustainable, reviving the LAVTR would be a great first step.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: State Tax Proposals: Good, Bad, and Best

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705092982810.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Colby Custer  of Hays named to SNHU President's List

TMP-Marian vs Russell Saturday, Jan. 13 – 6 p.m. Phillipsburg, Kan. - Phillipsburg Auxiliary Gym

Radio: KJLS (103.3) <a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>

The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs open play at the MCL tournament Saturday with a feather bracket game against the Russell Broncos.

The Monarchs are 3-6 and 2-2 in the MCL after a loss to Ellis on Thursday.

Tipoff of the girls game is set for 6:00 p.m. from Phillipsburg. Live coverage includes The TMP-Marian Sports Network and Eagle Radio MIX 103.3 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian vs Russell Saturday, Jan. 13 – 6 p.m. Phillipsburg, Kan. - Phillipsburg Auxiliary GymRadio: KJLS (103.3) <a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs open play at the MCL tournament Saturday with a feather bracket game against the Russell Broncos.The Monarchs are 3-6 and 2-2 in the MCL after a loss to Ellis on Thursday.Russell is 1-7 and 0-2 in the MCL.&nbsp;Tipoff of the girls game is set for 6:00 p.m. from Phillipsburg. Live coverage includes The TMP-Marian Sports Network and Eagle Radio MIX 103.3 FM.

🏀🎧 LISTEN - TMP girls open MCL tournament against Russell

TMP-Marian vs Smith Center Saturday, Jan. 13 – 6 p.m. Phillipsburg, Kan. - Chuck Newlin Gym

Radio: KHAZ (99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs open play at the MCL tournament Saturday with a feather bracket game against the Smith Center Redmen.

The Monarchs are 3-6 and 3-1 in the MCL after a win over Ellis on Thursday.

Tipoff of the game is set for 6:00 p.m. at Chuck Newlin Gym in Phillipsburg. Live coverage includes The TMP-Marian Sports Network and Eagle Radio 99.5 KHAZ.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian vs Smith Center Saturday, Jan. 13 – 6 p.m. Phillipsburg, Kan. - Chuck Newlin GymRadio: KHAZ (99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs open play at the MCL tournament Saturday with a feather bracket game against the Smith Center Redmen.The Monarchs are 3-6 and 3-1 in the MCL after a win over Ellis on Thursday.Smith Center is 2-5 and 1-2 in the MCL.Tipoff of the game is set for 6:00 p.m. at Chuck Newlin Gym in Phillipsburg. Live coverage includes The TMP-Marian Sports Network and Eagle Radio 99.5 KHAZ.

🏀🎧 LISTEN - TMP boys open MCL tournament against Smith Center

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board will have a work session at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;Monday at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The board will welcome three new board members, including Ruth Ruder and Derek Yarmer. Allen Park will begin his second term.

The board is set to discuss the health insurance plan and hear updates on technology, transportation and new high school graduation requirements that will affect students who are in the eighth grade.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608234493687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board will have a work session at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;Monday at the Rockwell Administration Center.The board will welcome three new board members, including Ruth Ruder and Derek Yarmer. Allen Park will begin his second term.The board is set to discuss the health insurance plan and hear updates on technology, transportation and new high school graduation requirements that will affect students who are in the eighth grade.

Hays BOE work session to include discussion on new graduation requirements

Date: Sunday, January 28, 2024 Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Holy Family Elementary School, 18th&nbsp;and Vine, Hays

We invite you to attend our annual Chili Supper &amp; Bazaar! Come join us for a delicious meal of chili, hot chicken sandwiches on homemade buns, relishes, and desserts (there are sugar-free options).&nbsp;Meal tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children (ages 4-12). Children 3 and under eat free! The food line will cut off at 1:30 p.m.&nbsp;Mailers were sent out through all of our Heartland Parishes, and you can buy tickets at the door. All are welcome! Our drive-thru pick-up option was such a hit, that we’re bringing it back again on the South side of the school building! If mailing in ticket orders, please send in by Monday, January 22.

We have a thrilling Silent Auction &amp; Raffle taking place in the school gym. As always, we have some exciting raffle items this year, including a Halo Pizza Oven, $500 or $1,000 cash, a Dell Latitude Notebook, a Nintendo Switch Lite, bikes, Beats headphones, an electric scooter, gift certificates and memberships galore! Our Silent Auction is always full of some great gift baskets to bid on, and everything from toys to electronics to activities and anything in between!

The games are BACK! We have a large variety of games for children to play which will be in the Activity Center! Bingo will be offered in the PK-4 classroom, including some great prizes for the lucky winners, both children and adults alike!

The Book Fair will be running in the Library, so be sure to send your young readers down to browse some great books &amp; educational items for sale! All proceeds go to the librarian for new books for the school!All meal tickets, raffle tickets, and general donations for the chili supper go straight into our school's operating account, so your support makes a tremendous difference to HFE!! We hope to see you come out that day and enjoy the fellowship and fun we have to offer our community!

Thank you for your ongoing support of Catholic education in our community!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674731459647.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDate: Sunday, January 28, 2024 Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Holy Family Elementary School, 18th&nbsp;and Vine, HaysWe invite you to attend our annual Chili Supper &amp; Bazaar! Come join us for a delicious meal of chili, hot chicken sandwiches on homemade buns, relishes, and desserts (there are sugar-free options).&nbsp;Meal tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children (ages 4-12). Children 3 and under eat free! The food line will cut off at 1:30 p.m.&nbsp;Mailers were sent out through all of our Heartland Parishes, and you can buy tickets at the door. All are welcome! Our drive-thru pick-up option was such a hit, that we’re bringing it back again on the South side of the school building! If mailing in ticket orders, please send in by Monday, January 22.We have a thrilling Silent Auction &amp; Raffle taking place in the school gym. As always, we have some exciting raffle items this year, including a Halo Pizza Oven, $500 or $1,000 cash, a Dell Latitude Notebook, a Nintendo Switch Lite, bikes, Beats headphones, an electric scooter, gift certificates and memberships galore! Our Silent Auction is always full of some great gift baskets to bid on, and everything from toys to electronics to activities and anything in between!The games are BACK! We have a large variety of games for children to play which will be in the Activity Center! Bingo will be offered in the PK-4 classroom, including some great prizes for the lucky winners, both children and adults alike!The Book Fair will be running in the Library, so be sure to send your young readers down to browse some great books &amp; educational items for sale! All proceeds go to the librarian for new books for the school!All meal tickets, raffle tickets, and general donations for the chili supper go straight into our school's operating account, so your support makes a tremendous difference to HFE!! We hope to see you come out that day and enjoy the fellowship and fun we have to offer our community!Thank you for your ongoing support of Catholic education in our community!

Holy Family Elementary plans Annual Chili Supper & Bazaar

With all eyes on the severe weather moving around the country, scammers are paying attention, too. And they’re likely following the path of the storms to target the people affected. So, how do you protect yourself against weather-related scams?

Weather emergencies mean big bucks for scammers and unlicensed contractors. They’ll appear right after a storm and offer to get your power back on, make essential repairs, or help with whatever you need. But if you pay them, they’ll take your money and disappear, charge you for things you don’t need, or leave before completing the work you paid them to do.

To avoid scammers trying to take advantage of you after a storm:

• Spot&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/scammers-pretend-be-your-utility-company" target="_blank">utility imposter scams</a>.&nbsp;Utility imposters work year-round, but after a storm, they might call or knock on your door saying they need to repair or replace equipment. Then they’ll ask you to pay. Don’t pay them. That’s a scam.&nbsp; &nbsp;

• Hire only contractors who are licensed and insured. Check with your state or county government to confirm a contractor’s license. Ask the contractor for proof of insurance and a written contract.&nbsp;

• Never pay in cash. Paying by credit card offers you some protections. And only pay in full after the work is done and you’re satisfied with it.

• Read about other&nbsp;weather-related scams at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/dealing-weather-emergencies#stayingalert" target="_blank">ftc.gov/WeatherEmergencies</a>.&nbsp;Then share the information with friends and family to help them avoid losing money, too.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Suspect a scam? Tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704843220345.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FTCWith all eyes on the severe weather moving around the country, scammers are paying attention, too. And they’re likely following the path of the storms to target the people affected. So, how do you protect yourself against weather-related scams?Weather emergencies mean big bucks for scammers and unlicensed contractors. They’ll appear right after a storm and offer to get your power back on, make essential repairs, or help with whatever you need. But if you pay them, they’ll take your money and disappear, charge you for things you don’t need, or leave before completing the work you paid them to do.To avoid scammers trying to take advantage of you after a storm:• Spot&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/scammers-pretend-be-your-utility-company" target="_blank">utility imposter scams</a>.&nbsp;Utility imposters work year-round, but after a storm, they might call or knock on your door saying they need to repair or replace equipment. Then they’ll ask you to pay. Don’t pay them. That’s a scam.&nbsp; &nbsp;• Hire only contractors who are licensed and insured. Check with your state or county government to confirm a contractor’s license. Ask the contractor for proof of insurance and a written contract.&nbsp;• Never pay in cash. Paying by credit card offers you some protections. And only pay in full after the work is done and you’re satisfied with it.• Read about other&nbsp;weather-related scams at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/dealing-weather-emergencies#stayingalert" target="_blank">ftc.gov/WeatherEmergencies</a>.&nbsp;Then share the information with friends and family to help them avoid losing money, too.&nbsp; &nbsp;Suspect a scam? Tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: Tracking the first winter storms of the year? So are scammers

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705092796236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

BROOKINGS, S.D. - South Dakota State University announces Katelyn Engel of Hays, has been named to the dean's list for the fall 2023 semester.

Overall, 3,475 students from 39 states and 24 foreign nations are on the list. Nearly 1,500 students received a 4.0 GPA, and those are indicated with an asterisk.

Engel is a student in SDSU's College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

Congratulations&nbsp;on earning this academic achievement, Katelyn.

South Dakota State UniversityBROOKINGS, S.D. - South Dakota State University announces Katelyn Engel of Hays, has been named to the dean's list for the fall 2023 semester.Overall, 3,475 students from 39 states and 24 foreign nations are on the list. Nearly 1,500 students received a 4.0 GPA, and those are indicated with an asterisk.Engel is a student in SDSU's College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.Congratulations&nbsp;on earning this academic achievement, Katelyn.

Katelyn Engel named to South Dakota State University's fall 2023 dean's list

ELLIS COUNTY —A KHP K9 was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Friday in Ellis County.

According to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Hileman, troopers briefly shutdown Interstate 70 westbound between Walker and Hays to allow tow-trucks to remove a semi, involved in an earlier accident, from the median at the Walker bridge.

&nbsp;Traffic was routed to Old Highway 40 from Walker to Commerce Parkway in Hays and allowed back on Interstate 70.

During the shutdown, a westbound semi struck a State Trooper's vehicle with his K9 partner in the kennel.&nbsp; The trooper was outside the vehicle directing traffic and not injured. The K9 was rushed to a local veterinarian in Hays for treatment. Just before 6:30p.m., Hileman said, "we are all hoping for the best."

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705102910212.png" alt="View of the accident scene -KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>View of the accident scene -KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —A KHP K9 was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Friday in Ellis County.According to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Hileman, troopers briefly shutdown Interstate 70 westbound between Walker and Hays to allow tow-trucks to remove a semi, involved in an earlier accident, from the median at the Walker bridge.&nbsp;Traffic was routed to Old Highway 40 from Walker to Commerce Parkway in Hays and allowed back on Interstate 70.During the shutdown, a westbound semi struck a State Trooper's vehicle with his K9 partner in the kennel.&nbsp; The trooper was outside the vehicle directing traffic and not injured. The K9 was rushed to a local veterinarian in Hays for treatment. Just before 6:30p.m., Hileman said, "we are all hoping for the best."Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

KHP K9 injured after semi strikes patrol vehicle on I-70

Interstate 70 is closed westbound between the Ellis County line and Russell County line and KS 255 (10 miles east of the Hays area).

&nbsp;The road is closed due to a crash. Traffic is being diverted off WB I-70 at Walker Exit MM 172.

Interstate 70 is closed westbound between the Ellis County line and Russell County line and KS 255 (10 miles east of the Hays area).&nbsp;The road is closed due to a crash. Traffic is being diverted off WB I-70 at Walker Exit MM 172.

I-70 westbound closed between Ellis and Russell Co. lines

Hays High ata Garden City Friday, Jan. 1 – 6:00 p.m. Garde City, Kan. - Garden City High School

Radio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/895016">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

After a three week absence from the hardwood the Hays High
Indians are on the road Friday for a key Western Athletic Conference showdown
at Garden City. 

The Indians haven’t played since December 22nd when
they swept Liberal.

sThe Indians girls are 4-3 on the season while the boys are
3-4. 

Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. with the Hertz Rent-a Car Pregame show at 5:40 on
KFIX and HaysPost.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High ata Garden City Friday, Jan. 1 – 6:00 p.m. Garde City, Kan. - Garden City High SchoolRadio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/895016">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>After a three week absence from the hardwood the Hays High
Indians are on the road Friday for a key Western Athletic Conference showdown
at Garden City. The Indians haven’t played since December 22nd when
they swept Liberal.sThe Indians girls are 4-3 on the season while the boys are
3-4. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. with the Hertz Rent-a Car Pregame show at 5:40 on
KFIX and HaysPost.com.

🏀🎥 Indians return to action at Garden City

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Friday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2020 Chevrolet Impala driven by Trinity M.&nbsp;Burke, 19, Las Vegas, Nevada,&nbsp;was westbound on interstate 70 at Walker Avenue. The driver lost control of the car crossing an icy bridge. 

The vehicle entered the center median and stuck a semi that was on its side from a previous accident. After impact the Chevy re-entered the highway and came to rest on the north bound shoulder facing west.

EMS transported Burke to Hays Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Friday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2020 Chevrolet Impala driven by Trinity M.&nbsp;Burke, 19, Las Vegas, Nevada,&nbsp;was westbound on interstate 70 at Walker Avenue. The driver lost control of the car crossing an icy bridge. The vehicle entered the center median and stuck a semi that was on its side from a previous accident. After impact the Chevy re-entered the highway and came to rest on the north bound shoulder facing west.EMS transported Burke to Hays Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Teen injured after car strikes semi in median from earlier crash

Veterans in the Dole VA area of operations in need of shelter or other assistance due to the extreme cold weather can contact the facility for help.

Veterans who need shelter or assistance due to the extreme cold temperatures should contact Dole VA at 316-685-2221 (toll free 888-878-6881), press “0” to contact the operator, then ask for the Emergency Department. Veterans can also walk into the Emergency Department and receive assistance. VA staff will assist Veterans with finding shelter or assistance for other needs.

Dole VA serves veterans who live in 59 of Kansas’ 105 counties. A map of those counties supported is on the Dole VA website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/wichita-health-care/about-us/#about-theva-wichitahealthcare-" target="_blank">https://www.va.gov/wichita-health-care/about-us/#about-theva-wichitahealthcare-</a>. Veterans in any of those counties are encouraged to contact Dole VA when in need. In addition to the medical center in Wichita, Dole VA operates community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) in Dodge City, Hays, Hutchinson, Parsons, and Salina.

“We have an obligation and a duty to serve those who have served us so unselfishly,” said Michael Payne, Dole VA Medical Center director. “We realize there are veterans who may find themselves needing help and we want them to know we are prepared to offer it.”

SubmittedVeterans in the Dole VA area of operations in need of shelter or other assistance due to the extreme cold weather can contact the facility for help.Veterans who need shelter or assistance due to the extreme cold temperatures should contact Dole VA at 316-685-2221 (toll free 888-878-6881), press “0” to contact the operator, then ask for the Emergency Department. Veterans can also walk into the Emergency Department and receive assistance. VA staff will assist Veterans with finding shelter or assistance for other needs.Dole VA serves veterans who live in 59 of Kansas’ 105 counties. A map of those counties supported is on the Dole VA website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/wichita-health-care/about-us/#about-theva-wichitahealthcare-" target="_blank">https://www.va.gov/wichita-health-care/about-us/#about-theva-wichitahealthcare-</a>. Veterans in any of those counties are encouraged to contact Dole VA when in need. In addition to the medical center in Wichita, Dole VA operates community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) in Dodge City, Hays, Hutchinson, Parsons, and Salina.“We have an obligation and a duty to serve those who have served us so unselfishly,” said Michael Payne, Dole VA Medical Center director. “We realize there are veterans who may find themselves needing help and we want them to know we are prepared to offer it.”